Almond-Crusted Cranberry Apple Bread
A moist, flavorful cranberry apple bread with a crunchy almond crust, perfect for breakfast or snacks, combining tart cranberries, sweet apples, and aromatic almond flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F.
- Grease and flour the bottom only of an 8 x 4-inch or 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the Cranberry Quick bread mix, cranberries, chopped peeled apple, apple juice or water, oil, egg, and almond extract.
- Stir 50 to 75 strokes by hand just until dry particles are moistened.
- Pour batter into the greased and floured pan.
- Sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 55 to 65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the loaf in the pan on a cooling rack for 15 minutes, then remove from the pan.
- Cool completely.
- Cover and store in the refrigerator.
- Just before serving, brush with warmed apple jelly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, substitute the sliced almonds with pumpkin seeds. If using frozen cranberries, ensure they are partially thawed to prevent excess moisture. To enhance the almond flavor, consider toasting the almonds before sprinkling them on top. Mixing in a pinch of cinnamon can also add warmth to the flavor profile, complementing the sweetness of the apple.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this delightful bread warm or at room temperature, brushed with warmed apple jelly for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee. For a more indulgent dessert, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoy it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. This recipe is perfect for brunch or as an afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Almond-Crusted Cranberry Apple Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, slice the bread and warm it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or toast it lightly for a crispy texture. This bread also freezes well; wrap it tightly and store for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Almond-Crusted Cranberry Apple Bread contains roughly 499 calories, with 5g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value), and protein (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different fruit instead of cranberries?
Yes, you can substitute cranberries with blueberries or chopped cherries for a different flavor. Just make sure the fruit is not overly juicy to maintain the bread's texture.
What can I do if my bread is too dry?
If your bread turns out dry, try adding a drizzle of apple juice or a little butter on top before serving. You can also serve it with cream cheese or a spread to enhance moisture.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This bread can be made a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature, and it will stay fresh. Just warm it slightly before serving for the best flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).